South Africa’s wine capital is preparing for one of its biggest annual celebrations as Wine Town Stellenbosch returns from 25 July to 2 August 2026, marking a major milestone for Stellenbosch Wine Routes, which is celebrating 55 years of promoting South African wine tourism and the internationally acclaimed wines of Stellenbosch.
The nine-day celebration will once again transform the region into a destination for wine lovers, food enthusiasts and travellers, culminating in the Stellenbosch Wine Festival on 31 July and 1 August. From exclusive tastings and curated dining experiences to vineyard adventures and luxury accommodation offers, this year’s programme promises one of the most comprehensive showcases of the Stellenbosch lifestyle yet.
Celebrating 55 Years of Wine Excellence
For more than five decades, Stellenbosch Wine Routes has played a leading role in establishing Stellenbosch as one of the world’s premier wine destinations.
Its 55th anniversary provides the perfect backdrop for an expanded Wine Town programme featuring special collaborations, anniversary celebrations and exclusive experiences designed to honour the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
Whether visitors are seasoned wine collectors or discovering Stellenbosch for the first time, Wine Town aims to deliver exceptional value while showcasing the region’s renowned hospitality, award-winning wines, outstanding cuisine and vibrant culture.
Nine Days of Wine, Food and Discovery
Running across the Stellenbosch region, Wine Town brings together wineries, restaurants, accommodation establishments and local businesses through a packed calendar of experiences.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Curated wine tours
- Vertical wine tastings
- Winemaker lunches and dinners
- Wine workshops
- Exclusive cellar experiences
- Restaurant specials
- Tastings created specifically for Wine Town
Beyond the vineyards, guests can also explore Stellenbosch’s historic streets, cafés, galleries, luxury accommodation and outdoor attractions, creating a complete destination experience.
Wine Town Begins with a Scenic Vineyard Run
The festivities officially begin on Saturday, 25 July, with the inaugural Wine Town Run/Walk at Dornier Wine Estate, presented in partnership with Runventure.
Participants can choose either a 10km or 5km scenic route through the vineyards, offering an active way to experience one of South Africa’s most picturesque wine regions.
Raise a Glass to 55 Years
To commemorate the anniversary, Stellenbosch Wine Routes has introduced the Celebrate With Us campaign in partnership with selected restaurants across the region.
Guests dining at participating restaurants will receive a complimentary glass of Stellenbosch wine with their meal, inviting visitors to celebrate more than half a century of exceptional wines, memorable dining experiences and stories shared around the table.
Signature Experiences Across the Region
Wine Town Stellenbosch offers an extensive programme of exclusive events, many of which have become annual favourites.
Highlights include:
Wilder as die Wildtuin
Chefs Bertus Basson, Drikus Brink and Michael Fuller collaborate on an evening celebrating South African venison, featuring game personally hunted by Bertus Basson, paired with Stellenbosch wines and hosted alongside participating winemakers.
Journey into Chenin Blanc
Hosted at DeMorgenzon Wine Estate, this daily tasting explores how the estate’s predominantly south-facing vineyards and cooler microclimates influence the character of its celebrated Chenin Blanc wines.
Retro Rouge Winter Wine Fest
Muratie Wine Estate celebrates its rich history with vintage wines, food, live music and a relaxed atmosphere during this much-loved winter festival.
Vintage Day at Simonsig
Visitors will have the opportunity to taste and purchase carefully selected older vintages from Simonsig. This year’s event also celebrates the 55th anniversary of Kaapse Vonkel, accompanied by food, wine and live entertainment.
Sip and Paint at Clos Malverne
Wine lovers can enjoy an afternoon of creativity while painting and tasting Clos Malverne wines, with all art materials and guidance included.
Live Music and Cheese Fondue Sundays
Delheim Wine Estate invites families and friends to gather in its cosy underground tasting cellar for authentic Swiss cheese fondue paired with wine and live music.
Quiz Night at Morgenster
Teams of six can test their knowledge during a midweek quiz evening at the historic Morgenster estate while enjoying wine in its elegant Italian-inspired surroundings.
Brunch with Blaauwklippen Winemaker Narina Cloete
Guests can enjoy brunch alongside Narina Cloete, who celebrates a decade as Blaauwklippen’s winemaker this year, offering visitors the opportunity to hear directly from the person behind the wines.
The Stellenbosch Wine Festival Takes Centre Stage
The highlight of Wine Town Stellenbosch remains the Stellenbosch Wine Festival, recognised as South Africa’s oldest wine festival, having been presented in various formats since the early 1970s.
Taking place at the historic Stellenbosch Town Hall on:
- Friday, 31 July (17:00–21:00)
- Saturday, 1 August (14:00–18:00)
the festival brings together more than 60 wine producers showcasing over 200 wines under one roof.
Each ticket includes:
- 20 wine tasting tokens
- A harvest table and signature small plates created by Chef Bertus Basson and Chef Adele Grewar
- Desserts
- Live music
- Access to the Aquasky water station
Tickets cost R600 online or R650 at the door.
Exclusive Accommodation Specials
Visitors wishing to extend their stay can also benefit from exclusive accommodation discounts available only during Wine Town Stellenbosch.
Participating luxury properties are offering discounts of between 15% and 20%, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the celebrations while exploring everything Stellenbosch has to offer.
A Toast to South Africa’s Wine Capital
As Stellenbosch Wine Routes celebrates 55 years of championing South African wine tourism, Wine Town Stellenbosch 2026 promises a fitting tribute to the region’s enduring reputation for world-class wine, exceptional food and unforgettable hospitality.
With nine days of curated experiences, milestone celebrations and one of the country’s most celebrated wine festivals, visitors will have the opportunity to discover why Stellenbosch continues to set the benchmark for wine tourism in South Africa.
